Costantino Rocca

The Italian worked in a polystyrene box factory for eight years while working on his game. When he turned 24 he turned pro and was sixth at the 1982 European Tour Qualifying school. Things didn't work out and he was forced to return three times to qualifying school. When things still didn't work out, he played on the European Challenge Tour in 1989. He placed third on the money list which earned him another try on the European tour in 1990. He won twice in 1993 and with the wins became the first Italian since Massimo Mannelli to win on the European Tour. He went on to became a true champion when he won the 1996 PGA Championship at Wentworth Club. Remembered for the fluffed chip followed by the 60 foot putt at the 18th at St Andrews to force a playoff with John Daly in the 1995 Open Golf Championship, which he subsequently lost, and his crucial singles win by 4 and 2 over Tiger Woods in The 1997 Ryder Cup at Valderrama to help Europe win. Remains the only Italian to date to have played in The Ryder Cup. Italy�s most decorated golfer joined the European Seniors Tour at the beginning of 2007 and was set to make an emotional debut in his home national open, the Sharp Italian Seniors Open at Circolo Golf Venezia in May.